Fire crews made many drops this evening to try get a handle on the mountains up in flames. So far the fire has ripped through more than 1,600 acres of rugged terrain. The aftermath is scorched trees, charred brush, and black burned soil.

Jarrod Twist and so many others who live near here are under mandatory evacuations now they hope to get their animals to safety. "We are just going to get the horse out of the way for now. We will hopefully be able to come back for the cows if they fire is not here."

Monday evening more than 800 firefighters were on the front lines. Their biggest challenge is the windy conditions and fast burning dry forest.

"The air tankers and helicopters are a wonderful addition. Every tool in the tool box helps," said Karen Guillemin, Cal Fire Spokesperson.

Action News reporters witnessed several firefighters chopping and spraying down burned trees to put out hotspots. Only miles way some are still finding shelter at mariposa elementary school.

"I'm okay, it's kind of blurry right now, a little scary right now, our kids are little are a little scared, we are just trying to stay strong for them," said Tammy Redfern, resident.

The Red Cross has set up a shelter at Mariposa Elementary School. If you have large animals you can take them to the Mariposa Fairgrounds.

There is a fire information line that will be answered again Tuesday morning starting at 6 a.m. The number is (209) 966-4784.